This module is particularly critical in today’s environment, given the growing popularity and widespread adoption of Virtual Assets (VAs) and the significant money laundering risks they pose. To provide a comprehensive understanding, the module has been divided into two parts:

Part I – Understanding Virtual Assets and VASPs
Covering the definition and types of VAs, who qualifies as a VASP, key money laundering typologies- chain hopping, mixers, ransomware, stablecoin misuse, and sanctions evasion, supported by global case studies like Binance and Tornado Cash. It outlines FATF’s policy response, including CDD, STR reporting, licensing, supervision, and the Travel Rule requirements. The module also discusses emerging global regulations such as the EU’s Markets in Crypto-Assets Regulation and Dubai’s Virtual Assets Regulatory Authority framework.

Part II – Regulatory Framework in India
Having understood the above, in this module we cover the Indian legal and regulatory landscape, including PMLA applicability, FIU-India guidelines and reporting obligations. How implementation of Travel Rule and stringent compliance help to mitigate risk. Emphasis is placed on implementing a risk-based approach, robust internal controls & policies for governance oversight, and most importantly having trained personnel. Given the heightened AML risks associated with the extensive use of digital assets (cryptocurrencies) across jurisdictions, this module highlights the need for strong AML/CFT controls and regulations.

About the Trainer

Dr. Srinivas Yanamandra

Empaneled Trainer

Dr Srinivas Yanamandra is a Fintech Consultant and has around 25 years of regulatory compliance experience across commercial banking, development banking and fintech industry domains. He worked earlier as a compliance officer at ICICI Bank, AML Principal Officer at IDFC First Bank, Chief of Compliance at BRICS New Development Bank (Shanghai) and Group Head of Regulatory Affairs at Paytm. He is currently associated as Visiting Professor at various law / public policy schools in India and abroad designing and delivering lectures in the areas of fintech innovation, electronic payments, digital lending, AI, data protection, and cyber security laws.